New Amish Settlement Takes Root in South Carolina’s Lowcountry
A quiet revolution is unfolding in the small town of Ridgeland, South Carolina, as the state’s first Old Order Amish community establishes itself among the live oaks and Spanish moss. The settlement, which began with just three families in early 2024, has now grown to over a dozen households, bringing with it a blend of traditional values and entrepreneurial spirit.
Local resident Sarah Thompson, 62, expressed her surprise and delight at the new neighbors. “I never thought I’d see horse-drawn buggies clip-clopping down our streets, but it’s become a charming part of our daily life here,” she said.
The Amish families, primarily from Ohio and Pennsylvania, were drawn to the area’s affordable farmland and mild climate. They’ve quickly made their mark on the local economy, opening several businesses that have become popular with both residents and tourists.
Amish horse and wagon
One such enterprise is the Palmetto Buggy Works, run by Eli Yoder. “We saw a need for quality, handcrafted furniture in the area,” Yoder explained. “Our pieces combine Amish craftsmanship with a touch of Lowcountry style.”
Another hit with locals is the Sweetgrass Bakery, operated by the Miller family. Their pies, breads, and famous shoofly cake have become sought-after treats. “I never knew what I was missing until I tasted their peach pie,” raved local teacher John Davis. “It’s simply heavenly.”
The settlement has also opened a small schoolhouse and plans are underway for a community-run general store. While some residents initially expressed concerns about the cultural differences, most have embraced their new neighbors.
Town Mayor Rebecca Collins sees the Amish arrival as a positive development. “They’ve brought a renewed focus on community and simple living that’s refreshing in today’s fast-paced world,” she noted. “Plus, their businesses are attracting visitors from all over, which is great for our local economy.”
As the sun sets over the newly-plowed fields, it’s clear that this unique blending of cultures is just beginning. The Amish of Ridgeland are writing a new chapter in South Carolina’s rich history, one buggy ride at a time.
Citations:
[1] https://amishamerica.com/amish-south-carolina/
[2] https://www.barkmanfurniture.com/south-carolina/
[3] https://downeast.com/features/thesettlers/
[4] https://kicks99.com/2024/08/19/small-amish-community-in-south-carolina/
[5] https://upstateamishfurnituregallery.com
[6] https://marine.copernicus.eu/marine-paragraph/iframe-render/https:%7C%7Cxn--80ahb2aiqy7e.xn--p1ai%7Cforum%7Chviujrxmlcppfe36j
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqxZIICWj7Q
[8] https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Amish&find_loc=Columbia%2C+SC
[9] https://amishamerica.com/5-southern-amish-communities/